From snopes.com: While it is not clear whether Napoleon actually said the quote, or in what context, Balzac did spend years researching the former emperor's life through books, letters and exchanges with those who knew him. His sources included Napoleon's niece Letizia Bonaparte, with whom he corresponded extensively. But Balzac was an admirer of the emperor and contributed to developing the myth around the man.
Honore Balzac appears to be like Gachot - there is a basis in fact, but also quite a lot of invention. Problem is, we cannot know which it is.
From snopes.com: While it is not clear whether Napoleon actually said the quote, or in what context, Balzac did spend years researching the former emperor's life through books, letters and exchanges with those who knew him. His sources included Napoleon's niece Letizia Bonaparte, with whom he corresponded extensively. But Balzac was an admirer of the emperor and contributed to developing the myth around the man.
Honore Balzac appears to be like Gachot - there is a basis in fact, but also quite a lot of invention. Problem is, we cannot know which it is.